Admissions Policy

Saint Louis University School of Law (SLU LAW) seeks to admit students of distinguished intellectual ability who will bring a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to the SLU LAW community and legal profession. SLU LAW uses a holistic approach when reviewing applications.

First, we consider all information in an application bearing on the likelihood that the applicant will succeed as a practicing attorney. Second, we consider the ways in which an applicant will contribute to the diversity of the law school class. We do so on the belief that diversity will improve the quality of education and contribute to the cultural competency of our students who will one day represent diverse groups and interests in a broad variety of contexts.

The mission of SLU LAW is to advance the understanding and the development of law and prepare students to achieve professional success and personal satisfaction through leadership and service to others. Guided by the Jesuit tradition of academic excellence, freedom of inquiry and respect for individual differences, the SLU LAW Admissions Committee reviews each applicant.

Based on the Jesuit tradition of academic excellence, SLU LAW looks for a record of impressive accomplishments when reviewing an application. The Law School Admission Test and undergraduate grade point average, while strong considerations in the review process, neither preclude nor guarantee admission. SLU LAW strives to admit intelligent individuals who have demonstrated both leadership and a commitment to community service and social justice, who have shown tenacity when facing challenges, who have shown conviction and discipline, and who have been innovative in their responses to personal difficulties.

The Admissions Committee takes into account any number of factors that help place the academic record in context. These factors include any upward trend in grades, whether an applicant worked while going to school, is a first-generation college student, or had family care commitments, among others.

Applying the Jesuit tradition of freedom of inquiry, SLU LAW maintains a supportive environment fostering rigorous thinking and collegial discussion. Consequently, we strive to assemble a student body that not only excels in student collaboration, but also engages in intellectually stimulating and introspective debate. SLU LAW alumni succeed in various fields following graduation, and thus the Admissions Committee seeks students who will continue this tradition of excellence in a multitude of careers.

Lastly, the Jesuit tradition of respect for individual differences contributes to our commitment to seeking and maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment. In creating a class, the Admissions Committee seeks individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds with differences in experiences, goals and perspectives. Every portion of an applicant’s file will be considered in evaluating candidates for admission, including work experience, extracurricular activities, socioeconomic background, study abroad experience and more. SLU LAW encourages applicants to submit information that best represents their qualifications and attributes.

ABA Standard 504

In addition to the bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners. The American Bar Association Standards require law schools to advise each applicant that state bar requirements deal with the character and fitness of an applicant at the time he/she seeks certification to register for the respective state bar examinations. The American Bar Association Standards further allow the law school to seek information on character and fitness to ensure that appropriate law school requirements are met. Acceptance by the School of Law does not guarantee certification by the state bar examiners. Many state bars expect a candidate to reveal knowledge of all criminal incidents or disciplinary charges, even if expunged, sealed or otherwise. If you are concerned about any facts that may affect your eligibility to practice law, you should discuss the matter with the Board of Bar Examiners or the appropriate committee on character and fitness in the state in which you expect to practice.